Automated workstation for disinfecting objects and methods of use thereof

ABSTRACT

An automated workstation or apparatus for disinfecting an object in a controlled environment is provided. A method for disinfecting an object in a controlled environment is provided.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/838,645, filed Aug. 16, 2006, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD

The invention generally relates to an automated workstation or apparatusfor disinfecting an object in a controlled environment, and a method fordisinfecting an object in a controlled environment, such as a specificpathogen free (SPF) environment. The workstation can reduce labor costsand reduce disease outbreaks in SPF animal facilities, SPF laboratoryenvironments, or food processing facilities.

BACKGROUND

Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) is a general term used to indicate thatcertain pathogens (disease causing microbes) have been excluded from ananimal or a colony of animals. SPF facilities are designed to maintainrodents (both normal and transgenic) in an environment that is free ofcertain infectious organisms that are pathogenic and capable ofinterfering with research objectives. Like all animals, rodents aresusceptible to a variety of viruses, bacteria and parasites. Some ofthese agents are capable of inducing disease outright, while others maysignificantly alter host responses to experimental conditions withoutcausing overt signs of disease. Personnel working in these facilitiesmust adhere to strict guidelines and standard operating procedures toavoid introducing pathogens into the facility.

If a pathogen is detected, the entire animal housing room is placedunder quarantine until the infected rodents are identified and removed,and successive rounds of sentinel testing demonstrate that the pathogenis no longer present. Length of quarantine depends, in part, on the typeof pathogen, and how well SPF procedures were followed prior toquarantine. Depending on how widespread the pathogen is, the cost of an“outbreak” detection may exceed tens of thousands of dollars.

Specific steps must be followed closely in order to avoid contaminationto the SPF environment and to research animals. Personnel must put onshoe covers as they step across the threshold of the doorway into theroom. In some SPF facilities (termed Barrier SPF), one must take ashower first. Once in the room, a hair bonnet, gloves and lab coat arerequired. To work in a dedicated hood within the room, personnel mustput on a set of sleeves to cover their forearms and a second pair ofgloves so that the gloves overlap the cuff of the sleeves.

During the transfer of an animal cage to a dedicated hood for proceduraltesting and/or animal husbandry (e.g., changing the bedding, water orfood), care must be taken to ensure that the filter-top (i.e.,micro-isolator lid) stays securely in place as it protects the insidecage environment from any airborne pathogens that could infect theanimals. All items (i.e., cages, supply boxes, one's gloved hands) thatgo into the hood must be sprayed with disinfectant prior to their entryper standard SPF operating procedures. Once the item is sprayed withdisinfectant, it may enter the hood and be placed on the work surface.

The current procedure used for disinfecting an animal cage (and otheritems) is done manually by “hard-spraying” the cage with disinfectantemploying a typical spray bottle, which is the standard practiceworldwide. The end user holds, and carefully rotates a cage in one handwhile spraying disinfectant on all four sides, as well as the bottom,with the other “free” hand. Extreme caution must be used when rotatingthe cage as to avoid dropping the cage on the floor, which couldpotentially injure and/or kill the animal(s) inside. Note, a standardmouse cage measures 11½″L×7½″W×5″H and typically houses 1-5 animalswhile a standard rat cage measures 19″L×10″W×8″H and can house up to 3animals. The size of these cages alone makes them extremely difficult tohandle with one hand. Once the cage has been sprayed it's extremelyslippery and even more difficult to control.

The amount of time required to disinfect a single cage using the current“spray bottle method” can take up to 15 seconds or more. Rodent cagesmust be changed on a weekly basis by dedicated animal care staff and mayalso be handled on a daily basis, often multiple times, by the researchinvestigative groups that need to perform experimental procedures. In2006, the University of Washington (UW) alone had an annual rodent useof 193,412 (180,087 mice and 13,325 rats) with an average dailyinventory of 102,718 (100,174 mice and 2,544 rats). The number of cagesrequired to house these animals on any given day is ˜40,457. The timerequired to ensure proper disinfecting of cages during bedding change bydedicated animal care staff alone is equivalent to ˜168.5 hrs/wk or 4.2full time employees (FTEs) (˜40,457 cages×15 seconds/cage). This is aconservative estimate and does not include the time that researchinvestigators must spend spraying down their cages prior to beginningany work in the hood. The present invention will substantially reducethe amount of time it takes to disinfect a single cage employing the“spray bottle method” as the time (duration; set to 1 second (or less)vs. 15 seconds) and volume (amount) of spray can be metered/controlled.This can be translated to a significant reduction in labor cost (˜10hrs/wk (0.25 FTE's) vs. ˜168.5 hrs/wk (4.2 FTEs)).

The standard “spray bottle method” currently used globally, is timeconsuming, inefficient, wastes disinfectant, and increases the risk oferror by laboratory personnel which may lead to possible pathogencontamination to valuable animals because one cannot ensure 100%coverage. Additionally, the spray bottle method may increase ergonomicinjury due to handling slippery cages with one hand and having torepeatedly pull the trigger of the spray bottle with the other hand.Therefore, a need exists in the art to substantially reduce the amountof time required to disinfect animal cages entering a sterile hood,e.g., dedicated work space, decrease the risk of human error andincrease end user handling control thereby reducing the potential forpathogen contamination and endangerment of animals and provide 100%“proof of disinfection”.

SUMMARY

The invention relates generally to an automated workstation fordisinfecting an object in a controlled environment, e.g., a pathogenfree environment or a “clean” environment within a food processingfacility, and a method for disinfecting an object in a controlledenvironment, e.g., a pathogen free environment or a “clean” environmentwithin a food processing facility,. The objects to be disinfected caninclude, but are not limited to, animal cages, animal carrier, gloves,equipment, supplies, supply boxes, pens, paper, bottles, operator'sgloves, operator's gown, or food stuff. The food stuff can be meat,poultry, seafood, shellfish, or vegetables. The pathogen freeenvironment can be a specific pathogen free (SPF) environment, forexample, in a laboratory setting. The automated system willsubstantially make it easier and faster to disinfect bulky cages leadingto reduced time, enhanced compliance and more thorough disinfection. Oneadvantage of the system of the invention includes reduction of ergonomicinjuries to an operator due to handling of slippery cages and having torepeatedly use a spray bottle (standard process used throughout theworld at the present time). Furthermore, the system increases end userhandling control thereby reducing the potential for pathogencontamination and endangerment of animals (dropped cages), while in someembodiments simultaneously disinfecting worker's gloves and conservingdisinfectant The automated system and methods described hereinadvantageously provide reduce labor costs (70-80% of the cost for anyanimal facility) and can reduce disease outbreaks (which can befinancially devastating to investigators) in SPF animal facilities andSPF laboratory environments globally.

An automated workstation for an end user operator to disinfect an objectis provided which includes a work surface area for receiving the object.The object is typically positioned temporarily in a stationary manner inthe work surface for sanitation, and the work surface can be furtherconfigured for releasing the object into a dedicated work space theautomated workstation can further include at least one spray nozzledisposed within the work surface area for spraying a microbialdisinfectant fluid over an external surface of the object, a source ofmicrobial disinfectant fluid, a fluid distribution system fluidlyconnected to the source of microbial disinfectant fluid, a pumpconnected to the fluid distribution system and a pressurization systemfor pumping the microbial disinfectant fluid to the at least one spraynozzle, and a control system to deliver a timed and metered amount ofthe microbial disinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle suchthat the object is disinfected with the microbial disinfectant fluid.The objects can be positioned over the work surface area by an operator.Following decontamination, the object, e.g., disinfected cage, can beremoved from the work surface area and moved elsewhere, for example, tothe dedicated work space. The dedicated work space includes, but is notlimited to, an animal bedding changing station, a laminar flow hood, abiosafety cabinet, or a clean area of a food processing facility. Theobject can include, but is not limited to, an animal cage, an animalshipping container, gloves, equipment, supplies, supply boxes, pens,paper, bottles, operator's gloves, operator's gown, or food stuff.

In a further aspect, an automated workstation for disinfecting an objectis provided which includes a work surface area for receiving the objectand releasing the object into a dedicated work space, a spray nozzleand/or nozzles positioned within the work surface area for spraying amicrobial disinfectant fluid over an external surface of the object, ametered spray of a given amount and/or duration, an automated activationmechanism and/or a mechanical/physical activation mechanism, a spraynozzle and/or nozzle(s) connected by a valve and/or internal check valveto control timed and metered volume of disinfectant fluid, a manifoldconnecting a source of microbial disinfectant fluid to valve/spray,nozzle(s) assemblies, a fluid distribution system fluidly connected tothe source of microbial disinfectant fluid, a pump connected to apre-pressurized accumulator tank or other pressurization system, apre-pressurized accumulator tank connected to the fluid distributionsystem for pumping the microbial disinfectant fluid to the nozzles, aproximity/photo-cell/IR/mechanical sensor to activate the fluiddistribution system for the microbial disinfectant to the nozzles, acontrol system which controls a timed and metered delivery of themicrobial disinfectant fluid to the nozzles such that the object isdisinfected with the microbial disinfectant fluid, a power source, andan “on”/“off” switch. In one aspect, the object is an animal cage or ananimal carrier, and the disinfectant fluid is sprayed over four sidesand a bottom of the animal cage or the animal carrier, thus avoidingcontact of the disinfectant spray with a cage cover or micro-isolatorlid. In a further aspect the disinfectant fluid is sprayed over foursides, a top, and a bottom of the animal cage or the animal carrier,wherein the animal cage or animal carrier has a waterproof or watertightcage cover.

The present invention further relates to the development of an automatedworkstation that would be used within an SPF environment. The stationwill permit end users to use both of their hands to hold on to the cagewhile quickly “scanning” it over the work surface area, misting it withdisinfectant via strategically placed spray nozzles. This will reducethe amount of time required substantially to disinfect an objectentering a sterile hood (i.e., dedicated work space). Additionally, theworkstation will permit increased end user handling control therebyreducing the potential for pathogen contamination and endangerment toanimals. The unit itself is free standing or countertop mounted andconstructed of corrosion resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel,anodized aluminum, and/or plastic). It includes clean supply and “dirty”waste reservoir bottles to hold disinfectant and run-off, respectively,an electrical pressurizing pump connected to a pre-pressurizedaccumulator tank or pressurized reservoir, and a “work surface area”with spray nozzles strategically placed to ensure complete coverage oftarget areas as the cage is “scanned”. The system can be activated via aproximity, mechanical, physical, or optical sensor or via a mechanicalfoot pedal and, knee lever, or cage lever resulting in a controlled,timed and/or metered, spray pattern of disinfectant. All workingcomponents can be connected e.g., via plumbing/tubing and electrical.

The present invention further relates to an apparatus for disinfectingan object which comprises at least one spray nozzle capable of sprayinga microbial disinfectant fluid over an external surface of the object, asource of microbial disinfectant fluid, a fluid distribution systemfluidly connected to the source of microbial disinfectant fluid, a pumpconnected to the fluid distribution system and a pressurization systemfor pumping the microbial disinfectant fluid to the at least one spraynozzle, and a control system to deliver a metered amount of themicrobial disinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle such thatthe external surface of the object is contacted with the microbialdisinfectant fluid to reduce pathogen contamination of the object.

For a better understanding of the present invention, together with otherand further objects thereof, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings and detailed description and its scope will be pointed out inthe appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a pneumatic heightadjustable WORKSTATION/CART (to fill in dimensions) of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is another sectional side view of the above embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a SPRAY WORK SURFACEAREA/RETURN DRAIN PAN (to fill in dimensions) of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a top view of an embodiment of a SPRAY WORK SURFACEAREA/RETURN DRAIN PAN (to fill in dimensions) of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a corrosionresistant PUMP/POWER ENCLOSURE(s) (to fill in dimensions) of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a CLEAN/WASTERESERVOIR BOTTLE (to fill in dimensions) of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a CLEAN/WASTERESERVOIR BOTTLE SYSTEM (to fill in dimensions) of the presentinvention.

FIG. 8 is a sectional side view of the above embodiments of the presentinvention (FIG. 5, 6, 7).

FIG. 9 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a SPRAY NOZZLE ofthe present invention.

FIG. 10 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a stainless steeldirect acting solenoid VALVE (to be determined) OR equipped with aninternal check valve (to be determined) either or both in line betweennozzle tip and pressurization system of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a SENSOR and orSENSORS (plural) of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a sectional side view of the above embodiments of the presentinvention disposed within the work surface area (FIG. 3, 4).

FIG. 13 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a primary orsecondary actuator FOOT PEDAL and/or KNEE LEVER and/or CAGE LEVER of thepresent invention.

FIG. 14 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a 12 VDC impellertype PUMP self regulated to 40-120 PSI or higher (to be determined) ofthe present invention.

FIG. 15 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a PRE-PRESSURIZEDTANK of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a MANIFOLD of thepresent invention.

FIG. 17 is a sectional side view of the above embodiments of the presentinvention within the PUMP ENCLOSURE (FIG. 5).

FIG. 18 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a POWER SOURCEand/or SOURCES/POWER SUPPLY of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a sectional side view of the above embodiments of the presentinvention within the POWER ENCLOSURE (FIG. 5).

FIG. 20 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a SPRAY GUN/WAND ofthe present invention.

FIG. 21 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of the PLUMBING/TUBINGof the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of the above embodiment of the presentinvention shown in an operational configuration (to fill in dimensions)capable of disinfecting an animal cage.

FIG. 23 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of the automatedworkstation for disinfecting animal cages of the present invention (FIG.1-22).

FIG. 24 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of the CAGE(s).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An automated system or a method to disinfect an object is provided. Thesystem can be an automated workstation or an apparatus. The object to bedisinfected typically includes, but is not limited to, animal cages,animal shipping containers, gloves, equipment, supplies, supply boxes,pens, paper, bottles, operator's gloves, operator's gown or foodstuff.The automated workstation or the apparatus can be used in animalfacilities or laboratory environments which may or may not be specificpathogen free (SPF),or in food handling facilities, as described hereinbelow.

The automated workstation for an end user operator to disinfect anobject is provided which includes a work surface area for receiving andstationary positioning of the object. The workstation can furtherinclude at least one spray nozzle disposed within the work surface areafor spraying a disinfectant fluid over an external surface of the objectand a control system to deliver a timed or metered amount of thedisinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle and further deliverdisinfectant fluid to the object. The workstation can further beconfigured for releasably positioning the object such that the objectcan be moved to a separate location, e.g., into a dedicated work space,following delivery of disinfectant fluid. The workstation can furtherinclude a source of microbial disinfectant fluid, a fluid distributionsystem fluidly connected to the source of microbial disinfectant fluid,a pump connected to the fluid distribution system and a pressurizationsystem for pumping the microbial disinfectant fluid to the at least onespray nozzle.

An apparatus for disinfecting an object in a controlled environment cancomprise, at least one spray nozzle in a spray gun or wand capable ofspraying a microbial disinfectant fluid over an external surface of theobject. The apparatus comprises at least one spray nozzle capable ofspraying a microbial disinfectant fluid over an external surface of theobject, a source of microbial disinfectant fluid, a fluid distributionsystem fluidly connected to the source of microbial disinfectant fluid,a pump connected to the fluid distribution system and a pressurizationsystem for pumping the microbial disinfectant fluid to the at least onespray nozzle, and a control system to deliver a metered amount of themicrobial disinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle such thatthe external surface of the object is contacted with the microbialdisinfectant fluid to reduce pathogen contamination of the object. Thespray gun or wand apparatus can be operated by a manual trigger or apedal trigger.

A “controlled environment” refers to environments including, but notlimited to, laboratories, vivaria, and laboratory animal facilities,which include specific pathogen free (SPF) laboratories, SPF vivaria,SPF laboratory animal facilities. A “controlled environment” furtherrefers to a food processing facility.

Specific pathogen free, or SPF, is a general term used to indicate thatcertain pathogens have been excluded from an animal or a colony ofanimals. SPF facilities are designed to maintain rodents (both normaland transgenic) in an environment that is free of certain infectiousorganisms that are pathogenic and capable of interfering with researchobjectives. A pathogen refers to a disease-causing microorganism.Pathogens or infectious agents excluded from SPF rodent facilitiesinclude, but are not limited to, mouse hepatitis virus (MHV), mouseparvovirus (MPV), minute virus of mice (MVM), reovirus-3 (Reo-3),pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), Epizootic diarrhea of infant mice (EDIM),Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), lymphocyticchoriomeningitis virus (LCMV), ectromelia (mouse pox), sendai virus,sialodacryoadenitis virus (SDAV), rat parvoviruses, Mycoplasma pulmonis,pinworms, or fur mites. Pathogens in a food processing facility, includefor example, Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli, Staphylococcusor Campylobacter in meat and poultry processing facilities.

“Dedicated work space” refers to an SPF facility, SPF laboratory, SPFvivarium, or SPF animal facility, or an animal bedding changing station,a laminar flow hood, or a biosafety cabinet which may or may not bewithin an SPF facility. “Dedicated work space” can further refer to a“clean” area within a food processing facility.

The animal cage or the animal shipping container can contain one or moreanimals. In a detailed aspect, the food stuff can include, but is notlimited to, animal, poultry, seafood, fish, shellfish, or vegetable.

The automated system, work station, or apparatus is connected to wallpower. A unit switch is turned to “on” position. The pump (FIG. 14)draws disinfectant from the clean reservoir supply bottle (FIG. 6) andbring the system up to pressure. The pump can be designed for a widerange of applications and constructed from a selection of materialssuitable for handling a broad range of chemicals. The pump isself-priming up to 8 feet (2.4 m), can run dry without damage, and madeof chemical resistant materials. The pump is equipped with built-in backflow preventer, internal bypass standard, and a heavy duty ball bearingdrive system. To start and prime the pump, the discharge line must beopen allowing trapped air to escape thus avoiding the potential ofairlock. The pressure switch will shut off the pump automatically whenthe discharge valve is closed and the pressure has risen to the switchOFF set point. The pressure switch will restart the pump when a valve(s)is opened and the discharge line pressure drops to the ON set point ofthe pressure switch. Use of a flexible hose (FIG. 21) of the correctpressure rating is used to be compatible with the fluid to be pumped. Aminimum 40-mesh strainer or filter in the pump inlet line is employed toprevent foreign debris from entering the system.

At this point the pre-pressurized tank (FIG. 15), spray gun/wand (FIG.20), spray nozzle assembly (FIG. 9), and main trunk line plumbing (FIG.21) are at working pressure (approximately 60 PSI or higher; range40-160). The pre-pressurized tank (FIG. 15) is a bladder type pressurestorage vessel and/or pulsation dampening device designed to hold liquid(e.g., disinfectant) under pressure. The tank provides additional liquidstorage to assist the pump (FIG. 14) in meeting the total demands of thesystem. This will extend pump life by eliminating pump pulsating on/off.The tank makes liquid disinfectant available at a moments notice withoutcycling the pump. The pump (FIG. 14) switches on and off to maintainthis pre-set system pressure, assuring an on-demand spray pressure andsupply.

The main trunk line plumbing (FIG. 21) is joined via a manifold (FIG.16), creating a common location to organize multiple lines (FIG. 21)within the fluid system. The manifold is employed to distribute liquid(i.e., disinfectant) to multiple individual spray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9),connected to micro-solenoid valve(s) (FIG. 10), via threading thefittings to one source. A central distribution point makes maintenanceeasier. The manifold can have two inlets (one at each end) and 2-10mounting holes and be made of corrosion and chemical resistantmaterials.

The main trunk line plumbing (FIG. 21) can include, but not be limitedto, the following materials, shape and reinforcement (respectively):acrylic, blended PVC/polyurethane, butyrate, ethylenetetrafluoroethylene, ethyl vinyl acetate, nylon, polyethylene,polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, PVC, PVDF, Teflon®polytetrafluoroethylene, Tygon® high purity, Tygon® tygothanepolyurethane, Tygon® PVC, nitrile; single line and self-retracting coil;and un-reinforced, braid-reinforced, wire reinforced or braid covered.

The spray gun/wand (FIG. 20) can be manually activated at any time bythe user via a trigger switch. The purpose of the spray gun is to allowthe end user to manually disinfect, wash down, rinse, and/or generalcleanup of the SPF facility/room and/or laboratory environment or foodprocessing facility, including a dedicated hood, floor, and the unititself. The spray gun/wand will include a front/rear trigger, ahigh-pressure angled spray nozzle, a trigger lock that preventsaccidental discharge and a trigger guard that protects the trigger fromdamage. The spray gun/wand can be lightweight and corrosion resistant.The gun/wand will be equipped with a swivel inlet connector for easiergun handling and to prevent hose (FIG. 21) from kinking.

The presence of a cage (FIG. 24) is detected by a sensor: photo-cell,proximity, optical, infrared (IR) (FIG. 11), and/or via manualmechanism: e.g., mechanical or physical (FIG. 13) (manual override)which triggers the opening of the spray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9) via solenoidvalve(s) (FIG. 10) and/or spring loaded internal check valve (FIG. 10).The sensors will detect an object without physical contact. They oftenemit an electromagnetic field or beam and look for changes in the fieldvia object-reflecting style, reflector style, or two-piece style (referto FIG. 11). The object (e.g., animal cage) being sensed is referred toas the sensor's target. An optical sensor is common in position andmotion sensing. The animal cage passes between an LED and detector tointerrupt a light beam or an IR sensor. An IR sensor works by sendingout a beam of IR light, and then computing the distance to any objectsfrom characteristics of the returned (reflected) signal.

A timed (duration) and/or metered volume (amount) of disinfectant isinitiated when a cage is “sensed” via a “object-reflecting”,“reflector”, “two-piece style” sensor OR manually via secondary actuator(FIG. 13), which causes the solenoid valve(s) (FIG. 10) to open thespray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9) disposed within the work surface area (FIG.3—sectional side view only; FIG. 4—top view only; and FIG. 12—sectionalside view of embodiments FIG. 3, 9, 10, 11, and 24) thereby misting theexternal four sides and bottom surfaces of the cage (FIG. 12, 24) (e.g.,target area). FIG. 12 shows a standard mouse cage in position (end user,using both gloved hands, holds cage in fixed position) beingsprayed/misted with disinfectant. FIG. 3 represents a side view of thework surface area/return drip pan made of corrosion and chemicalresistant material. FIG. 4 is a top view of the work surface area/returndrip pan. The spray nozzle(s) are strategically placed/disposed in thetwo sides and ends of the work surface area. Any disinfectant that dripsoff the animal cage after a timed and metered volume of disinfectant iscollected to the waste reservoir bottle (FIG. 6) via line pluming (FIG.21).

At the end of the pre-determined time (duration) and/or volume (amount),the spray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9) shut-off, thereby terminating the flowpattern of disinfectant (FIG. 9) from the clean reservoir supply bottle(FIG. 6). The spray nozzle(s) may have interchangeable spray tips andoptional nozzle strainer equipped with stainless steel (corrosionresistant) screens of various mesh sizes. The nozzle(s) will haveoptional spray patterns to include but not be limited to: flat fan; fan,full cone, square full cone, full cone with uniform distribution, densefull cone, fog, and straight jet; adjustable from 0-110 degrees, andspray volume of 0.011 to 101 L/min).

The cycle is repeated by recognizing the presence of another cage (FIG.24) via the photo-cell/proximity/optical/IR/mechanical/physical sensor(FIG. 11, 13). A pre-installed mechanical/physical activation mechanismcan be employed alone or in combination with an electronic sensor. Themechanical physical activation mechanism can be used to override thephoto-cell/proximity/optical/IR sensor (FIG. 13).

The automated work station can have a freestanding structure to supportthe workstation. In an alternative aspect the automated workstation canbe mounted into a work counter, or attached to or next to a laminar flowhood.

The automated workstation can have a shield mounted to the work surfacearea/basin to protect the end user from overspray. In one aspect, theprotective shield can have four sides—two sides, back, and top.

A block diagram of the above embodiments of the present invention in anoperational configuration capable of disinfecting an animal cage isshown in FIG. 22. Upon connection to wall power and the unit switchturned to “on” position, the pump (FIG. 14) draws disinfectant from theclean reservoir supply bottle (labeled C) and bring the system up topressure. The pre-pressurized tank (FIG. 15), spray gun/wand (FIG. 20),spray nozzle assembly (FIG. 9), and main trunk line plumbing (FIG. 21)are at working pressure (approximately 60 PSI or higher; range 40-160).The main trunk line plumbing (FIG. 21) is joined via a manifold (FIG.16), creating a common location to organize multiple lines (FIG. 21)within the fluid system. The spray gun/wand (FIG. 20) can be manuallyactivated at any time by the user via a trigger switch. The presence ofa cage (FIG. 24) is detected by a sensor: photo-cell, proximity,optical, Infrared (IR) (FIG. 11), or via manual mechanism: mechanical orphysical (FIG. 13) (e.g., a manual override) which triggers the openingof the spray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9) via solenoid valve(s) (FIG. 10) and/orspring loaded internal check valve (FIG. 10). A timed (duration) and/ormetered volume (amount) of disinfectant is initiated when a cage is“sensed” via a “object-reflecting”, “reflector”, “two-piece style”sensor or manually via secondary actuator (FIG. 13), which causes thesolenoid valve(s) (FIG. 10) to open the spray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9)disposed within the work surface area (FIG. 3 —sectional side view only;FIG. 4—top view only; and FIG. 12—sectional side view of embodimentsFIG. 3, 9, 10, 11, and 24) thereby misting the external four sides andbottom surfaces of the cage (FIG. 12, 24) (e.g., target area). At theend of the pre-determined time (duration) and/or volume (amount), thespray nozzle(s) (FIG. 9) shut-off, thereby terminating the flow patternof disinfectant (FIG. 9) from the clean reservoir supply bottle (FIG.6). The cycle is repeated by recognizing the presence of another cage(FIG. 24) via the photo-cell/proximity/optical/IR/mechanical/physicalsensor (FIG. 11, 13). A pre-installed mechanical/physical activationmechanism may be employed to override thephoto-cell/proximity/optical/IR sensor (FIG. 13). FIG. 23 is acomparable configuration(s) to the block diagram (FIG. 22) termedPathogen Reduction Misting Station (PRMS) or automated workstation fordisinfecting an animal cage.

Any disinfectant that is stable, safe, or inert under pressure can beused in the automated workstation. Disinfectant includes, but is notlimited to, chlorine dioxide, Clidox-S® Dilution Disinfectant, PharmacalResearch Labs, Inc., 562 Captain Neville Drive, Waterbury, Conn. 06705),quaternary ammonium chloride, Quatricide TB™, Quatricide PV™, QuatricidePV 15™, Quatricide™, iodine solution, Virkon-S™, potassiumperoxymonosulfate (disinfecting/cleansing agent), sulphamic acid(disinfecting/cleansing agent), malic acid (disinfecting/cleansingagent), sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate (detergent), sodium chloride(disinfecting/cleansing agent), sodium hexametaphosphate (bufferingagent), Amaranth dye (indicator colour), Lemon extract (odorant), adetergent, saline, water, or any other commercially availabledisinfectant(s).

Although the invention has been described with respect to variousembodiments, it should be realized that this invention is also capableof a wide variety of further and other embodiments within the spirit andscope of the present invention. The pathogen free transfer station orautomated workstation for disinfecting animal cages as disclosed hereincan be used in a variety of applications including, but not limited toclean rooms, tissue culture rooms, animal biosafety rooms, physician'soffice, medical/surgical prep rooms, slaughterhouses, food processingfacilities, or any area/room that requires disinfecting ones hands,instruments, or equipment.

Other embodiments and uses will be apparent to one skilled in the art inlight of the present disclosures. Although the invention has beendescribed with respect to various embodiments, it should be realizedthis invention is also capable of a wide variety of further and otherembodiments within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The automated workstation for disinfecting an animal cage and methodsfor disinfecting animal cages can be used in the following environments,including but not limited to, laboratory and SPF environments.

-   1. Clean rooms which are now used in a variety of industries:    -   a. Medical device industry    -   b. Biotechnology industry    -   c. Semiconductor industry    -   d. Pharmaceutical industry    -   e. Microelectronics industry (e.g., chip manufacturing)    -   f. Life sciences industry    -   g. Cosmetic markets    -   h. Nanotechnology industry    -   i. Defense industry-   2. Tissue Culture Rooms for:    -   a. Replication-incompetent viruses, uninfected tissues and cell        lines    -   b. Replication competent viruses and viral DNA    -   c. Plant tissue culture (e.g., somatic embryogenesis)    -   d. Succulent tissue culture (e.g., produces rare and endangered        cacti and succulent plants using in vitro techniques. Research        on a growing number of ornamental plants, cut flowers and        pot-plants and rare ornamentals like bulb- and caudex forming        tropical plants. Induction of tetraploids and basic research in        the field of induction of variegation and cristation in in vitro        plants-   3. Animal Bio Safety Level 2, 3 or 4 (ABSL 2, 3 or 4) Laboratories;-   4. Bio Safety Level 2, 3 or 4 (BSL 2, 3, or 4) Laboratories;-   5. Physician Offices;-   6. Medical/Surgical prep rooms;-   7. Slaughterhouses—kill floor and/or meat processing rooms;-   8. Food processing facilities, e.g., to clean or remove pathogenic    organisms from meat, poultry, fish, seafood, or vegetables;-   9. Any area/room that requires disinfecting a person's hands,    instruments, or equipment.

When ranges are used herein for physical properties, such as molecularweight, or chemical properties, such as chemical formulae, allcombinations and subcombinations of ranges and specific embodimentstherein are intended to be included.

The disclosures of each patent, patent application and publication citedor described in this document are hereby incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes andmodifications can be made to the embodiments of the invention and thatsuch changes and modifications can be made without departing from thespirit of the invention. It is, therefore, intended that the appendedclaims cover all such equivalent variations as fall within the truespirit and scope of the invention.

1. An automated workstation for disinfecting an object comprising, awork surface area configured for removably receiving and stationarypositioning of the object, at least one spray nozzle disposed within thework surface area for spraying a disinfectant fluid over an externalsurface of the object, and a control system configured for automateddelivery of a timed or metered amount of the disinfectant fluid to theat least one spray nozzle for fluid delivery to the object.
 2. Anautomated workstation for disinfecting an object comprising, a worksurface area for receiving the object and releasing the object into adedicated work space, at least one spray nozzle disposed within the worksurface area for spraying a microbial disinfectant fluid over anexternal surface of the object, a source of microbial disinfectantfluid, a fluid distribution system fluidly connected to the source ofmicrobial disinfectant fluid, a pump connected to the fluid distributionsystem and a pressurization system for pumping the microbialdisinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle, and a controlsystem to deliver a timed and metered amount of the microbialdisinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle in an amount effectto reduce pathogen contamination of the object.
 3. The workstation ofclaim 2 wherein the object is gloves, equipment, supplies, supply boxes,pens, paper, bottles, operator's gloves, operator's gown, or food stuff.4. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the object is an animal cage or ananimal shipping container.
 5. The workstation of claim 4 wherein theanimal cage or the animal shipping container contains one or moreanimals.
 6. The workstation of claim 3 wherein the food stuff is animal,poultry, seafood, fish, shellfish, or vegetable.
 7. The workstation ofclaim 2 wherein the disinfectant fluid comprises chlorine dioxide,quaternary ammonium chloride, iodine solution, potassiumperoxymonosulfate, sulphamic acid, malic acid, sodium dodecyl benzenesulphonate, sodium chloride, detergent, or water.
 8. The workstation ofclaim 6 wherein the disinfectant fluid comprises saline wash, detergentwash, or water wash.
 9. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the worksurface area comprises a cabinet defining an interior chamber forreceiving the object and releasing the object into the dedicated workspace.
 10. The workstation of claim 4 wherein the at least one spraynozzle disposed within the work surface area spray the microbialdisinfectant fluid over side external surfaces and bottom externalsurfaces of the animal cage.
 11. The workstation of claim 10 wherein theat least one spray nozzle sprays disinfectant fluid over four externalside surfaces and bottom external surface of the animal cage.
 12. Theworkstation of claim 11 wherein the at least one spray nozzle isdisposed within the work surface area to provide essentially 100%surface area coverage over four external side surfaces and bottomexternal surface.
 13. The workstation of claim 2 further comprising aprotective shield attached to the workstation, wherein the protectiveshield is capable of protecting an operator from contact withdisinfectant fluid spray.
 14. The workstation of claim 12 wherein the atleast one spray nozzle is disposed within the work surface area to avoiddisinfectant fluid contact with one or more filters associated with acage cover.
 15. The workstation of claim 14 wherein the cage covercomprises a micro-isolator lid.
 16. The workstation of claim 4 whereinthe at least one spray nozzle sprays disinfectant fluid over fourexternal side surfaces, top external surface, and bottom externalsurface of the animal cage.
 17. The workstation of claim 16 wherein thecage cover comprises a watertight cover.
 18. The workstation of claim 16wherein the at least one spray nozzle is disposed within the worksurface area to provide essentially 100% surface area coverage over fourexternal side surfaces, top external surface, and bottom externalsurface.
 19. The workstation of claim 2 further comprising at least sixspray nozzles.
 20. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the at least onespray nozzle is connected by at least one valve to control timed andmetered volume of disinfectant fluid.
 21. The workstation of claim 20wherein at least six spray nozzles are connected to at least six valves.22. The workstation of claim 20 wherein the valve is a solenoid valve oran internal check valve.
 23. The workstation of claim 2 wherein anoperator is capable of positioning the object in the work surface areaand removing the disinfected object from the work surface area to thededicated work space.
 24. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the objectis automatically positioned in the work surface area and the disinfectedobject automatically removed from the work surface area to the dedicatedwork space.
 25. The workstation of claim 2 further comprising a manifoldconnecting the source of microbial disinfectant fluid to the valve andspray nozzle.
 26. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the at least onespray nozzle comprises a nozzle assembly of two or more spray nozzles.27. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the pressurization systemcomprises a tank or a pre-pressurized accumulator tank.
 28. Theworkstation of claim 2 wherein the control system delivers a meteredspray of a given amount and duration.
 29. The workstation of claim 2further comprising a proximity sensor to activate the fluid distributionsystem for the microbial disinfectant to the nozzles.
 30. Theworkstation of claim 2 wherein the proximity sensor comprises aphoto-cell, infrared detector, or mechanical detector, or a combinationthereof.
 31. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the control systemcomprises a mechanical or physical mechanism to activate the fluiddistribution system for the microbial disinfectant to the nozzles. 32.The workstation of claim 2 wherein the control system comprises anautomated mechanism to activate the fluid distribution system for themicrobial disinfectant to the nozzles.
 33. The workstation of claim 2further comprising a power source.
 34. The workstation of claim 2further comprising an on/off switch.
 35. The workstation of claim 2further comprising a freestanding structure supporting the workstation.36. The workstation of claim 2 wherein the source of disinfectant fluidis contained in a reservoir.
 37. A method for disinfecting an objectwithin a controlled environment comprising, positioning the object overa work surface area, spraying a microbial disinfectant fluid on theobject from one or more spray nozzles within the work surface area in anamount effect to reduce pathogen contamination of the object, andreleasing or transferring the object after spraying into a dedicatedwork space within the controlled environment.
 38. The method of claim 37wherein the object is gloves, equipment, supplies, supply boxes, pens,paper, bottles, operator's gloves, operator's gown, food stuff, animalcage or animal shipping container.
 39. The method of claim 37 whereinthe disinfectant fluid is chlorine dioxide, quaternary ammoniumchloride, iodine solution, potassium peroxymonosulfate, sulphamic acid,malic acid, sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate, sodium chloride,detergent, water, a saline wash, a detergent wash, or water wash. 40.The method of claim 37 further comprising positioning the object infront of a proximity sensor, photo-cell sensor, IR sensor or a manualmechanism to activate the fluid distribution system for the microbialdisinfectant to the spray nozzles.
 41. The method of claim 37 furthercomprising positioning the one or more spray nozzles disposed within thework surface area to ensure essentially complete surface area coverageover the object.
 42. The method of claim 37 further comprisingpositioning the one or more spray nozzles disposed within the worksurface area to ensure essentially 100% surface area coverage over fourexternal side surfaces and bottom external surface of the animal cageand preventing disinfectant contact with any filter associated with acage cover or micro-isolator lid.
 43. The method of claim 37 furthercomprising positioning the one or more spray nozzles disposed within thework surface area to ensure essentially 100% surface area coverage overfour external side surfaces, top external surface, and bottom externalsurface of the animal cage.
 44. The method of claim 37 furthercomprising spraying a metered amount of the solution for a set duration.45. The method of claim 37 further comprising controlling the amount andduration of the spray by an internal check valve or a solenoid valve.46. The method of claim 37 further comprising activating the spray witha mechanical activation mechanism to control the amount and duration ofthe spray.
 47. The method of claim 37 wherein six spray nozzles arepositioned within the work surface area.
 48. The method of claim 37,further comprising positioning the object by operator handling in thework surface area, and removing the disinfected object by operatorhandling from the work surface area to the dedicated work space.
 49. Themethod of claim 37, further comprising automatically positioning theobject in the work surface area, and automatically removing thedisinfected object from the work surface area to the dedicated workspace.
 50. An apparatus for disinfecting an object comprising, at leastone spray nozzle capable of spraying a microbial disinfectant fluid overan external surface of the object, a source of microbial disinfectantfluid, a fluid distribution system fluidly connected to the source ofmicrobial disinfectant fluid, a pump connected to the fluid distributionsystem and a pressurization system for pumping the microbialdisinfectant fluid to the at least one spray nozzle, and a controlsystem to deliver a metered amount of the microbial disinfectant fluidto the at least one spray nozzle such that the external surface of theobject is contacted with the microbial disinfectant fluid in an amounteffect to reduce pathogen contamination of the object.
 51. The apparatusof claim 50 wherein the at least one spray nozzle is housed in a wand orgun.
 52. The apparatus of claim 50 wherein the fluid distribution systemis a hose to connect the source of microbial disinfectant fluid to theat least one spray nozzle.
 53. The apparatus of claim 50 wherein thecontrol system is a manual-operated trigger or pedal-operated trigger.54. The apparatus of claim 50 wherein the object is gloves, equipment,supplies, supply boxes, pens, paper, bottles, operator's gloves,operator's gown, food stuff, animal cage or animal shipping container.55. The apparatus of claim 50 wherein the disinfectant fluid compriseschlorine dioxide, quaternary ammonium chloride, iodine solution,potassium peroxymonosulfate, sulphamic acid, malic acid, sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate, sodium chloride, detergent, water, saline wash,detergent wash, or water wash
 56. The apparatus of claim 50 wherein theat least one spray nozzle is connected by at least one valve to controltimed and metered volume of disinfectant fluid.
 57. The apparatus ofclaim 50 further comprising a manifold connecting the source ofmicrobial disinfectant fluid to the valve and spray nozzle.
 58. Theapparatus of claim 50 wherein the at least one spray nozzle comprises anozzle assembly of two or more spray nozzles.
 59. The apparatus of claim50 wherein the pressurization system comprises a tank or apre-pressurized accumulator tank.
 60. The apparatus of claim 50 whereinthe control system delivers a metered spray of a given amount andduration.
 61. The apparatus of claim 50 further comprising a proximitysensor to activate the fluid distribution system for the microbialdisinfectant to the nozzles.
 62. The apparatus of claim 50 furthercomprising a mechanical or physical mechanism to activate the fluiddistribution system for the microbial disinfectant to the nozzles. 63.The apparatus of claim 50 further comprising a power source.
 64. Theapparatus of claim 50 further comprising an on/off switch.
 65. Theapparatus of claim 50 further comprising a freestanding structuresupporting the apparatus.
 66. The apparatus of claim 50 wherein thesource of disinfectant fluid is contained in a reservoir.
 67. Anautomated workstation for disinfecting an animal cage or an animalshipping container comprising, a work surface area for receiving theanimal cage or the animal shipping container and releasing the animalcage or the animal shipping container into a dedicated work space, aspray nozzle and/or nozzles positioned within the work surface area forspraying a microbial disinfectant fluid over an external surface, foursides, and bottom of the animal cage or the animal shipping container, ametered spray of a given amount and/or duration, a secondarymechanical/physical activation mechanism, one or more spray nozzlesconnected by one or more valves to control timed and metered volume ofdisinfectant fluid, a manifold connecting a source of microbialdisinfectant fluid to valve/spray nozzle(s) assemblies, a fluiddistribution system fluidly connected to the source of microbialdisinfectant fluid, a pump connected to a pre-pressurized accumulatortank or other pressurization system, a pre-pressurized accumulator tankconnected to the fluid distribution system for pumping the microbialdisinfectant fluid to the nozzles, a sensor to activate the fluiddistribution system for the microbial disinfectant to the nozzles, acontrol system which controls a timed and metered delivery of themicrobial disinfectant fluid to the nozzles in an amount effect toreduce pathogen contamination of the animal cage or the animal shippingcontainer, a power source, and an on/off switch.
 68. The automatedworkstation of claim 67 further comprising spray nozzles disposed withinthe work surface area for spraying the microbial disinfectant fluid overfour side external surfaces and bottom external surface of the animalcage or the animal shipping container, wherein the spray nozzlesdisposed within the work surface area to ensure essentially 100% surfacearea coverage over external side surfaces and bottom external surfacewith the intention of preventing disinfectant contact with any filterassociated with cage cover or micro-isolator lid.
 69. The automatedworkstation of claim 67 further comprising spray nozzles disposed withinthe work surface area for spraying the microbial disinfectant fluid overfour side external surfaces, top external surface, and bottom externalsurface of the animal cage or the animal shipping container, wherein thespray nozzles disposed within the work surface area to ensureessentially 100% surface area coverage over external side surfaces, topexternal surface, and bottom external surface.
 70. The workstation ofclaim 67 wherein the sensor is a proximity sensor, photo-cell sensor, IRsensor, or mechanical sensor.
 71. The workstation of claim 67 furthercomprising a protective shield attached to the workstation, wherein theprotective shield is capable of protecting a user from disinfectantfluid spray.
 72. The automated workstation of claim 67 furthercomprising a freestanding structure supporting the workstation which isa freestanding unit, a built-in “countertop” unit, a mobile unit onwheels or stand, a height adjustable unit, a non-height adjustable unit,or a unit made of corrosion resistant materials.
 73. The automatedworkstation of claim 67 wherein the source of disinfectant fluid iscontained in a clean supply bottle/reservoir.
 74. The automatedworkstation of claim 67 wherein the source of used disinfectant fluidrun-off is collected to a waste supply bottle/reservoir via a returndrip pan within the work surface area.
 75. The automated workstation ofclaim 1 wherein the workstation is attached to a dedicated workspace.76. The automated workstation of claim 75 wherein the dedicatedworkspace is a hood, laminar flow hood, animal bedding changing station,biosafety cabinet, vertical flow hood, chemical fume hood, clean area,or SPF facility.
 77. The automated workstation of claim 75 wherein theworkstation is permanently attached to the dedicated workspace.
 78. Theautomated workstation of claim 75 wherein the workstation is removablyattached to the dedicated workspace.
 79. The automated workstation ofclaim 75 wherein the workstation is mounted into a work counter.
 80. Theautomated workstation of claim 75 wherein the workstation is attached toan interior of the dedicated workspace.
 81. The automated workstation ofclaim 2 wherein the workstation is attached to a dedicated workspace.82. The automated workstation of claim 81 wherein the dedicatedworkspace is a hood, laminar flow hood, animal bedding changing station,biosafety cabinet, vertical flow hood, chemical fume hood, clean area,or SPF facility.
 83. The automated workstation of claim 81 wherein theworkstation is permanently attached to the dedicated workspace.
 84. Theautomated workstation of claim 81 wherein the workstation is removablyattached to the dedicated workspace.
 85. The method of claim 37, furthercomprising positioning the work surface area within the dedicatedworkspace.
 86. The method of claim 85 wherein the dedicated workspace isa hood, laminar flow hood, animal bedding changing station, biosafetycabinet, vertical flow hood, chemical fume hood, clean area, or SPFfacility.
 87. The method of claim 85, wherein the work surface area ispermanently attached to the dedicated workspace.
 88. The method of claim85, wherein the work surface area is removably attached to the dedicatedworkspace.